Hair Removal FAQ

Hair Removal FAQ - A New You - Kilkenny

How do intense pulsed light and lasers work?

Laser and intense pulsed light systems release precisely controlled short bursts of light that are absorbed by melanin, the pigment in hair. This heats the hair and destroys the root to achieve long term hair reduction.

How is the treatment carried out?

You will be asked wear goggles to protect your eyes. For intense pulsed light treatments, a layer of chilled gel is applied to the area to guide the light into the skin. Laser treatments do not require the use require the use of gel. The area will also be cooled to increase comfort during treatment.

The light guide is placed on the skin and a short pulse of light is released, targeting many follicles simultaneously. The applicator is then removed to the neighbouring area of skin and the process is repeated until the entire area is treated. The chilled gel is removed and the area cooled.

Aftercare

Sun avoidance is essential. Daily use of a high factor, broad spectrum sun block is strongly advised.

Am I suitable for treatment?

The ideal patient is fair skinned with dark hair, but results can also be achieved for fairer hair and darker skin types. The darker the hair, the easier it heats, as it contains more melanin. Fairer hair is harder to heat as it contains less melanin. Grey or white hair has no melanin so cannot be effectively treated.

How does the treatment feel?

No anaesthesia is required and most patients describe the discomfort as moderate and acceptable. Sensations vary but most describe it as a very short hot pin prick making it the preferred choice for hair removal.

What will I see after the treatment?

The hair follicles are damaged by heat but the hairs remain in the follicles. The hairs fall out after 1 – 3 weeks as the epidermis renews. During this period, the hairs will seem to “grow” as they are pushed out by the new epidermis.

Is it safe?

The skin can become quite red immediately after the treatment, however most patients experience no side effects and any skin reaction usually disappears within a few hours. Very rarely, the skin may become lighter or darker, or a small blister may form.

How many treatments are necessary?

Only hair that is actively growing is affected, therefore multiple treatments are needed. Treatment is conducted every 2 – 8 weeks, depending on the site treated, until a satisfactory result is seen. The number of treatments required varies, but typically 6 or more treatments are required for maximum results.

How long does each treatment take?

Treatments can take from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the area being treated.

Consultation procedure

Prior to any treatment, the qualified specialist will provide a full consultation. The consultation identifies your expectations and provides a complete explanation of the treatment.

A medical history is taken to confirm suitability for treatment, and if you wish to proceed, a written informed consent is obtained and a test patch is performed to confirm there are no adverse skin reactions to the light.